Perform had previously been one of the top performers in the FTSE 250, having grown quickly on the back of a three-year acquisition spree.

It manages digital distribution for sports rights holders such as the England and Wales Cricket Board, the Association of Tennis Professionals and a host of Premier League football clubs. The company provides video and data to broadcasters including the BBC and ITV, as well as betting operators and web publishers.

Related Articles

Perform blamed its December profits warning on lower-than-expected growth in its advertising and sponsorship business in the fourth quarter. Full year revenues, due to be announced in early March, are now expected to come in 6pc short of expectations, with profits hit even harder.

Mr Surtees joined Perform in 2008 as a veteran of the independent television production sector and the BBC.

Paul Walker, Perform’s non-executive Chairman, said: “David joined shortly after the formation of the Group and has helped to grow and build the business.

“We wish him well for the future."

Perform shares climbed more than 5.5pc to become the biggest riser in the FTSE 250 on Friday.